Tara D’Orazio, LMFT
Working with me feels like a really good conversation—one where you're deeply listened to, respected, and genuinely understood. I'm intensely curious about your experiences and perspectives, which means I'll ask thoughtful questions and offer intelligent, actionable feedback. My approach is active and engaged; you'll never feel like you're talking to yourself.
I'm a bit nerdy, occasionally funny, and always dedicated to managing myself thoughtfully so our sessions stay focused on you and your goals. Together, we'll create a comfortable space for honest dialogue, personal insight, and meaningful change.
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Santa Barbara (AUSB) and a Bachelor’s degree in Deaf Studies with a minor in Human Sexuality from California State University, Northridge (CSUN). My approach combines the best of current evidenced-based practices and effective approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR.
My early volunteer work with sexual trauma survivors inspired me to pursue the formal training of a license in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have personal experience thriving through an anxiety disorder and am passionate about helping other people reduce their stress and learn how to surf through fear towards their goals. I have successfully reduced my own anxiety through exposure and somatic therapies and I continue to search and practice new techniques as evidence emerges in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and biology.
Beyond being a therapist, I am an avid fiber artist, D&D player (favorite class: Cleric) and lifelong learner. I am always reading 12 books at once in a feeble attempt to absorb new knowledge as fast as it’s published. A list of my favorite clinical books are included on the references page.
Certifications and Advanced Training
IFS Level 2 Training; Intimacy From the Inside Out (in progress)
IFS Level 1 Training; IFS Institute
EMDR Basic Training ; EMDR Education and Training Center
Flash Technique ; Dr. Philip Mansfield
Foundations of the IFS Model ; Richard Schwartz, Pamela Krause, Toni Herbine-Blank
Skills for Psychological Recovery (SPR): An extension of Psychological First Aid, Wildfire Mental Health Training ; Dr. Patricia Watson and Dr. Joe Ruzek of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD
California Certified Sexual Assault Counselor ; Santa Barbara Rape Crisis Center (now Standing Together to End Sexual Assault)
Professional Memberships
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)
Redwood Empire chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (RECAMFT) – Board of Directors President 2020
North County San Diego chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (SDNCC) - Board of Directors 2025
EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)
International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD)
American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)